Mold and Health Hazards: PEI Rental Tenant Rights

Living in a rental home on Prince Edward Island should always mean safety and health are a priority. Unfortunately, issues like mold growth, pest infestations, and other health or safety hazards can sometimes arise, putting both comfort and your wellbeing at risk. This guide explains your rights as a tenant in PEI, what your landlord must do, and how to get help if your rental has mold, pests, or other health hazards.

Understanding Health Hazards in Rental Properties

Health hazards in PEI rentals typically include:

• Mold/mildew from dampness or water entry
• Pest infestations (insects, rodents)
• Air quality issues (poor ventilation, toxic fumes, secondhand smoke without proper separation)
• Unsafe structural or electrical issues

Under the Rental of Residential Property Act (PEI), landlords must provide safe and habitable living spaces that comply with health, safety, housing, and maintenance standards.^[1] If your unit is unsafe, it is your right to report it and request repairs.

Common Signs of Mold, Pests, and Hazards

Be alert for these signs—especially during the initial rental property inspection for tenants:

• Visible mold patches on walls, ceilings, or near windows
• Unusual musty odours
• Pest droppings, nests, or actual pests seen regularly
• Excessive moisture, leaks, or water stains
• Cracks, damaged flooring, signs of rot, or exposed wiring

If you spot any hazards at move-in or after, notify your landlord immediately in writing.

Your Rights and Landlord's Responsibilities

Landlords in PEI must:

• Comply with health, safety, and housing maintenance standards
• Promptly respond to written repair requests from tenants
• Take reasonable steps to deal with mold, pests, or other hazards

Tenants are responsible for maintaining reasonable cleanliness and promptly letting the landlord know about any issues.

What To Do if You Discover Mold, Pests, or Hazards

Take action as soon as you notice a problem:

1. Notify your landlord in writing (keep a copy for your records, include photos if possible).
2. If your landlord doesn't respond within a reasonable time, consider following the steps below.
3. If the issue is urgent (affecting your health or safety), you may report it to environmental health authorities or apply to the residential tenancy office for an order.

Applying for Help: Filing a Complaint or Order

For unresolved health, safety, or maintenance issues in your rental, you can apply to the PEI Director of Residential Rental Property, the official tribunal handling tenancy disputes on the Island.^[2]

This process uses the Application to Director of Residential Rental Property (Form 2A):

• When to use: If health hazards, mold, or pests aren't addressed after notifying your landlord or if urgent repairs are needed.
• How to use: Complete the form, submit supporting evidence (photos, communication), and file it with the Director’s office.

For persistent safety issues, you may also contact Environmental Health at PEI Department of Health and Wellness or your local public health office.

Action Steps for Tenants

• Document all problems with dates and photos
• Notify your landlord in writing as soon as possible
• File an Application to Director if the issue is not resolved promptly
• Keep copies of all correspondence and paperwork

If you’re moving in or out, see Essential Tips for Tenants When Moving Into a New Rental Home for advice on documenting property condition and communicating early with your landlord.

Maintenance, Repairs, and Moving In/Out

Health hazards and pests are sometimes discovered just before moving in or while preparing to move out. Remember:

• Inspect the unit thoroughly during move-in and take dated photos
• Address concerns immediately to avoid disputes later
• Request an inspection with your landlord if you discover hazards at move-out

You can also review your broader rights as a PEI renter at Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Prince Edward Island.

Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme if you are searching for a safe and healthy new place to live.

FAQ: Mold, Pests & Health Hazards – PEI Rental Tenants

1. Who is responsible for removing mold or fixing health hazards in my PEI rental?
   In most cases, the landlord is responsible for addressing mold, pest infestations, and health hazards, unless the tenant caused the problem by failing to keep the unit reasonably clean.
2. What should I do if my landlord ignores my written requests to fix a serious problem?
   If your landlord does not respond, you can apply to the Director of Residential Rental Property for an order requiring repairs using Form 2A.
3. Can I withhold rent if my landlord doesn’t deal with mold or pests?
   No, you should not withhold rent. Instead, follow the formal complaint process through the Director’s office to resolve the issue.
4. Is a landlord allowed to evict me for complaining about health hazards?
   No. Tenants cannot legally be evicted for exercising their right to a safe home or reporting hazards.
5. Are there resources to help if I have health concerns?
   Yes. PEI’s Residential Rental Property Office and public health units can assist tenants facing persistent health or safety risks.

Key Takeaways for PEI Tenants

• Landlords must keep rentals safe and free from health hazards under PEI law
• Document all problems and request repairs in writing
• If issues persist, apply to the Director of Residential Rental Property for help

Stay informed and take action to maintain a safe and healthy rental home.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• PEI Residential Rental Property Office (Director of Residential Rental Property)
• PEI Environmental Health
• PEI Legal Aid
• See Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Prince Edward Island for a full overview of renter protections

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1. See Rental of Residential Property Act (PEI)
2. PEI Director of Residential Rental Property

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